Nonu moved from the Hurricanes to the Blues in 2012, and after one season, he is ready to leave Auckland.

Nonu told reporters on Tuesday that he had signed with the Highlanders, and expressed his excitement at the prospect of playing for the Dunedin franchise in 2013. He also said that family reasons had influenced his decision.

The Highlanders have already signed All Blacks prop Tony Woodcock, and there are rumours that World Cup-winning lock Brad Thorn may link up with the franchise too.